Bardstown Car Accident Lawyer
Each year, over 1,000 people in Nelson County are involved in auto accidents. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, you might be eligible for compensation covering your medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, disabilities, diminished earning capacity, and more. However, to get all you deserve, it’s necessary to follow a thorough and detail-oriented process to prove the other party’s negligence and the full scope of your own injuries.
The car accident lawyer in our Bardstown office can help with the following:
- The collection of needed evidence
- Handling negotiations with insurance providers
- Advocating for the compensation you rightfully deserve
Call (502) 490-2214 or contact us online to get a free consultation. We work on contingency, so you don’t pay us unless we get you a settlement.
Your Rights in the Aftermath of a Vehicle Crash
After a car accident, it's crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Many people are unaware that they may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Haydon Blackmon, PLLC, we believe that every victim deserves justice and fair treatment.
Here are some key points to consider regarding your rights:
- Insurance Claims: You have the right to file a claim with the at-fault party's insurance company. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate this process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Medical Treatment: You should seek medical attention immediately after an accident, even if you feel fine. Documenting your injuries is essential for any potential claims.
- Legal Representation: You have the right to hire an attorney to represent you. Having a knowledgeable lawyer can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Statute of Limitations: Be aware that there are time limits for filing a claim in Kentucky. Acting quickly can protect your rights and ensure you don't miss important deadlines.
We at Haydon Blackmon, PLLC are committed to defending your rights and guiding you through the intricacies of auto accident lawsuits. Get a free consultation from us and allow us to assist you in starting the healing process.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Presuming you are physically able, these are the steps to take after a crash:
- Contact emergency services: Dial 911 and get law enforcement on the scene. Even if there is no dispute with the other driver, a police report is a valuable piece of evidence that our office may be able to use on your behalf.
- Collect evidence: If possible, use your cellphone to take photos and videos of the accident site. It’s also a good idea to get the names and contact information of any witnesses. We can follow up with them.
- Seek medical help: This is important and not just for your own well-being. The report of a doctor in the immediate aftermath of the accident is another important piece of evidence—especially if an insurance company attempts to minimize your injuries later on.
- Call our office: There are required steps after a car accident in Kentucky. One of them is reporting the crash to your insurance company. Anything you say may jeopardize your claim, so the sooner you can involve us, the more we can help protect your interests.
In Kentucky, you are eligible for compensation up to the policy limit, but you must incur at least $1,000 in medical expenses to seek further damages. If your injuries are severe or permanent, you can pursue legal action against the responsible party.
Negotiations with insurance companies follow, and if they aren't willing to provide fair compensation, legal action against the at-fault driver is the next step. We don’t shy away from litigation. Our willingness to go to court is an important leverage point to use in negotiations, as we fight to get you a strong settlement. The final decision is always yours. Our job is to secure the most favorable terms possible, and to give you good advice on whether to negotiate or litigate.
Common Types of Car Accidents in Kentucky
Understanding the common types of car accidents in Kentucky is crucial for anyone involved in a vehicular mishap. Familiarity with these accident types aids in building a strong legal claim and safeguarding your rights.
Here are some prevalent accident types:
- Rear-End Collisions: Often occurring in heavy traffic or at stoplights, these accidents typically result from distracted driving or sudden stops, leading to whiplash injuries.
- Side-Impact Crashes: Also known as T-bone accidents, these occur when a vehicle is struck on its side at intersections, often due to failure to yield or running a red light.
- Head-On Collisions: Among the most dangerous, these involve two vehicles crashing frontally, usually due to wrong-way driving or lane departures, often causing severe injuries or fatalities.
Single-Vehicle Accidents: These occur when a driver loses control and crashes into a stationary object, often due to slippery roads or driver distraction.
If you were injured in a serious collision, be sure to speak with a qualified car accident lawyer in Bardstown at Haydon Blackmon, PLLC. Contact us or call (502) 490-2214.
Evidence to Collect in a Car Accident Case
Proving a car accident case includes showing that the other driver breached their duty of care. This means demonstrating not only that they caused the accident, but also that their driving was not what a reasonable person would consider safe.
Various types of evidence can play a pivotal role in establishing a breach of duty:
- Surveillance footage: Video recordings from surveillance cameras can vividly capture the accident and any breach of duty by the defendant. We can request this footage and review it for you.
- Statements by the defendant: Any admissions of fault made by the defendant after the accident can serve as evidence.
- Traffic law violations: Perhaps the other driver received a ticket. Or, the surveillance footage may have uncovered violations. In either case, this is strong evidence of a breach of duty.
- Eyewitness testimony: Statements from witnesses can help demonstrate whether the defendant’s actions reflected an appropriate duty of care.
- Maintenance and vehicle records: Records showing a lack of proper maintenance or mechanical issues can support claims of negligence in vehicle upkeep.
- Expert analysis: We’re networked with expert witnesses who can analyze physical evidence and vehicle damage to help determine the cause of the accident.
Each case is distinct, and the most valuable evidence will vary. Bringing in our Bardstown car accident lawyer as soon as possible can prove valuable for the gathering and presenting of evidence.
How Does Kentucky Law Define a Fatal Car Accident?
A fatal car accident is legally defined as any vehicular crash that results in the death of one or more individuals involved. The consequences of such accidents extend beyond the immediate tragedy, influencing both criminal and civil legal proceedings. If a driver is found at fault, they may face criminal charges, especially if negligence or impaired driving is involved. These charges can range from vehicular manslaughter to reckless driving, depending on the circumstances.
For the families of the victims, the law provides the option to file a wrongful death claim. This civil action seeks to secure compensation for the loss of a loved one, covering expenses such as medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. Navigating the intricacies of these claims can be challenging, given the emotional toll and legal complexities involved.
Having experienced legal representation is crucial in these situations. At Haydon Blackmon, PLLC, a knowledgeable fatal car accident attorney from our firm can guide a family through the legal process, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. This support is essential in holding the responsible parties accountable and helping families find some measure of resolution in the aftermath of such devastating events.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, do not hesitate to reach out to our firm by calling (502) 490-2214.
Helping People in Difficult Times
The consequences of a car crash can alter your life in the blink of an eye. The accident may have been instantaneous, but the consequences could last a long time. You need a settlement that will take care of you and your family as you recover. We’ll do all we can to help you get it. We’re honored by the good reviews that past clients have given us, and we welcome the chance to serve you too.
Call (502) 490-2214. We’ll meet either in person or virtually for your convenience.
